Finnish Spitz Breed Notes- 20th September 2019

I have received our schedule for the forthcoming Finnish Spitz Society Open Show, being held on Saturday 26th October.  The judge this year is well known to all of us, Mr David Knights (Lelaps), the show is being held at their usual venue, Corley Village Hall and postal entries close on Saturday 5th October with online entries accepted up to mid-day 12th October 2019 at www.arenaprint.co.uk, if you require further information please contact the Show Secretary Mr David Rolfe or visit their website, www.finnishspitzsociety.co.uk.  Lindsay will be doing refreshments and there will be a raffle as well as the Society stall.

Darlington Show was held on Friday 13th the judge was Graham Hill and there were 5 entries with one absent on the day, winning his 43rd CC with BOB and equalling the current breed record was Robert Greaves, “Rigsby”, Ch & Ir  Ch Kunnikas Look No Further For Whittimere,  the Res Dog  CC was Steve and Zoie North’s Toverri Tynni From Markku, his 3rd such award.

We have only two more Championship Shows left this year with Challenge Certificates on offer, The Finnish Spitz Club Show next month and LKA in December. 

I welcome any news, either on shows or on our breed in general, Karen Byrne, vbyrnefamily@hotmail.co.uk or telephone  07792721974.

 

Finnish Spitz Breed Notes- 13th September 2019

I can not believe that we are already one week into the new school term, though Jack will correct me and say I should now say college and school!  Our son Jack who many of you know is the Editor of the Finnish Spitz Club yearbook has just begun his Public Services course at Strode college, with Evie just starting back at Secondary school, going into year 10 to start her GCSE’s.

Friday 6th September was Hound Day at Richmond Championship Dog Show, held at Loseley Park, Compton, Near Guildford.   People who know me well will realise why I was disappointed not to go, as I work in a school it is extremely difficult to get term days off, apart from missing the judging,  Loseley Park itself  is only five minute’s drive from my parents house and as we ourselves live in Somerset it would have been lovely to catch up with them either before or after the show – we are going for the weekend in a couple of week’s time so hopefully it will be warm enough for me to have some of Loseley’s own produced ice cream!

Our judge was Harry Tast who was over from his home country of Finland, he had three dogs to judge as one was absent on the day. The Bitch Challenge Certificate and BOB, her 18th CC, was awarded to mine and Angela Cavills’ Ch Kekkeruusin Emma Through Toveri (Imp FIN), handled as always by Stuart, the Hound Group was judged by Mo A E Persson from Sweden, I know that Stuart really appreciated the support from friends,  Mike and Angela, who stayed to watch Emma in the Group.  On the day the judge withheld the Dog CC and Reserve CC.

I welcome any news, either on shows or on our breed in general, Karen Byrne, vbyrnefamily@hotmail.co.uk or telephone  07792721974.

 

Finnish Spitz Breed Notes- 6th September 2019

I have been asked to do a big shout out to this year’s forthcoming Nordic Show, being held on Saturday 23rd November at Ryton on Dunsmore.  All Spitz Breeds have classes, for full details and to enter visit the Fosse Data website at, www.fossedate.co.uk, before midnight on Sunday 10th November, any additional queries can be addressed to the Hon. Secretary Mrs Nicola Croxford via e-mail: n.croxford@btopenworld.com , Nicola will be happy to send you a paper schedule if you prefer to do a postal entry. 

This year Finnish Spitz are being judged by Mr Anthony Bongiovanni (Ankors) who many of you will know through his work with Royal Canin, as well as judging and showing  his Pharaoh Hounds and latterly Portuguese Water Dogs.

I welcome any news, either on shows or on our breed in general, Karen Byrne, vbyrnefamily@hotmail.co.uk or telephone  07792721974.

 

Finnish Spitz Breed Notes- 30th August 2019

I can’t believe the school summer holidays are almost over with September arriving this coming weekend.  This will mean back to my term time routine,  which in fairness is not that much difference to the last month, it just means catching up with mine and Emmas’ walking friends (both human and canine) happens later after I have finished Breakfast Club at school.

It feels autumnally already, with the night’s drawing in, I am thinking it won’t be long and I will have to find Emma’s light which attaches to her collar for our evening walks!

As the Welsh KC has now been and gone, and we no longer have Challenge Certificates on offer at City of Birmingham, our next shows with Challenge Certificates are Richmond, Surrey on Friday 6thSeptember, followed by Darlington on Friday 13th September.  For those who have entered all the above mentioned shows it truly is a journey of lots and lots of miles wherever you live in the UK.  Drawing lines on a map between Welsh KC, Richmond and Darlington makes a big triangle covering a lot of England, into Wales and almost to Scotland, I know the shows each attract different exhibitors as well as those who don’t mind travelling. 

Unfortunately I can‘t personally make Friday shows with working in a school so my next show will be the Finnish Spitz Club Show on Saturday 5th October.  Luckily Stuart can go to the next couple of Friday shows so he can bring me back details to pass on to you.

I welcome any news, either on shows or on our breed in general, Karen Byrne, vbyrnefamily@hotmail.co.uk or telephone  07792721974.

 

Finnish Spitz Breed Notes-23rd August 2019

In between shows where we do not have Challenge certificates there are still shows available to enter, some Championship Shows still offer us classes without CC’s plus you can also enter Any Variety Hound Not Separately Classified (AVHNSC), also there are lots of open shows throughout the country.

News from David Rolfe, that his Finnish Spitz, Ch Puulatva the Red Norseman (Niko) won Best of Breed at two shows in eight days.  At South West Hound Club on 4th August, held in conjunction with Paignton Championship show, where the judge was Helen Wayman, followed closely by Bournemouth Championship show (12th August) the Judge was Rodney Oldham, this also gives us an opportunity to promote our beautiful breed, and attract new owners!

Friday 16th August saw Hound day at the WKC Championship show, held at its’ traditional venue in Builth Wells, which in my opinion gives us one of the most picturesque journeys to a show held throughout the UK! We were fortunate that for our journey to the show the rain held off, and in contrast to all the weather forecasts, the rain held off until mid-day, and the promised thunder storms never materialised!  The benching was conveniently located to our ring, which meant staying dry was easy. Our judge was hound specialist Mrs Anne Macdonald, who had an entry of 6 dogs making 6 entries, there was 1 absentee on the day. The Bitch CC and BOB, her 17th, was awarded to mine and Angela Cavills’ Ch Kekkeruusin Emma Through Toveri (Imp FIN), handled as always by Stuart, the dog CC, his 2nd, went to Steve and Alison Piearces’ Era Jarhen Turo At Sukunimi (Fin Imp), handled by Steve. Both the Dog and Bitch Reserve CCs were withheld.

I welcome any news, either on shows or on our breed in general, Karen Byrne, vbyrnefamily@hotmail.co.uk or telephone  07792721974.

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Finnish Spitz Breed Notes-16th August 2019

We are just back from a week’s family holiday in the sunny Isle of Wight, a beautiful place which I would highly recommend with plenty to do. 

Catching up on recent dog show results, Leeds Championship Show was held on Sunday 28th July, the first year we have had Challenge Certificates on offer, as mentioned before we were unable to enter this year as Emma has already won a Challenge Certificate under our judge, so my thanks to Robert Greaves for the results from the day.

All four dogs entered for our judge, Jenny Startup, were present on the day, the Dog CC along with BOB was awarded to Robert Greaves Ch & Ir Ch Kunniakas Look No Further For Whittimere with the Dog Reserve going to Linda Anderson & Steve and Alison Piearce’s Ch Sukunimi Haway Geordie, the Bitch CC was awarded to Jo Mansfield’s Yoivo Taia, I understand subject to Kennel Club confirmation this gives Yoivo Taia her Championship Title – many congratulations. 

I welcome any news, either on shows or on our breed in general, Karen Byrne, vbyrnefamily@hotmail.co.uk or telephone  07792721974.

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Finnish Spitz Breed Notes-9th August 2019

Two new schedules are out for shows coming up in autumn, not that I am wishing the year away!

First is the 52nd Breed Championship Show of The Finnish Spitz Club which is being held on Saturday 5th October at its usual venue, Baginton Village Hall.  The main show judge is breed specialist Mrs Brenda Williams and the Special Award classes are being judged by Mr Trevor Howlett, also a breed specialist, and gives you the chance to show under to judges on the same day.

The Nordic Show which is hosted by The Finnish Spitz Club and is for all Spitz Breeds and is on Saturday 23rd November at Ryton on Dunsmore, Finnish Spitz are being judged by Anthony Bongiovanni with David Cavill judging Best In Show, Best Puppy In Show and Best Veteran in Show. 

You can enter both shows on-line at www.fossedata.co.uk if you would like a postal entry form and have not yet got a schedule please contact the Hon. Secretary Mrs N Croxford at n.croxford@btopenworld.com

I welcome any news, either on shows or on our breed in general, Karen Byrne, vbyrnefamily@hotmail.co.uk or telephone  07792721974.

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Finnish Spitz Breed Notes-2nd August 2019

Wow what a start to the school summer holidays it is not raining, and the sun is shining! 

Normally the start of the school holidays means not such an early start for me, as I am normally one of the first to arrive at school to set up for “Breakfast Club”, however, due to this hot sunny spell this week I am actually up even earlier than usual. This is so I can walk Emma whilst it is still cool and in our local park other dog walkers are sensibly doing the same as it has been unusually busy at this time of day.

An early walk and another walk a lot later in the evening has been our routine this week with both walks being shorter than normal, as much as I love to exceed my daily step target you would have to be very irresponsible to walk your dog during the day in these recent weather conditions – I also have to remember to water my hanging baskets to stop the flowers from wilting!

Sunday 28th July is Hound Day at Leeds Championship Show, the first time we have Challenge Certificates here, I notice we have 4 entries which maybe for several reasons, as this is a new show for us in the show calendar I wonder if all exhibitors were aware? Some exhibitors will be on holiday, or as us, we unfortunately can not enter as Emma has already won a Challenge Certificate under our judge Jenny Startup, I look forward to receiving the results.

I welcome any news, either on shows or on our breed in general, Karen Byrne, vbyrnefamily@hotmail.co.uk or telephone  07792721974.

 

Finnish Spitz Breed Notes-26th July 2019

Due to work commitments I was unable to go along to this year’s Spitz in the Park weekend but Stuart and Robert Greaves were there from the Finnish Spitz Club, running the Companion Show, and stewarding in both rings of the Show. They were grateful to Elkhound enthusiasts Jon and Cynthia Crossley who supported them on the day by taking in all the entries and fees.   

It sounds like it was another successful fun weekend for this annual celebration where lots of events took place, open to all Spitz breeds.  Not only was there a Companion Show but a chance to have a go at Agility, Spitzlympics, Gold Good Citizen Testing, a First Aid Course and a popular quiz night to name just a few of the activities available. 

I will share details of the 2020 event as soon as I get them, so you can put it in your diaries, and go along and enjoy this celebration of Spitz breeds with your dogs.

On Sunday we were privileged to be guests to witness the Civil Service as David Cavill was formally declared Mayor of Trowbridge by the Reverend Rob Thomas, a lovely procession to the church took place with David and the town crier.  As Mayor, David has chosen to support RukSak45218, a local charity that helps reduce childhood poverty by providing basic essentials.

I welcome any news, either on shows or on our breed in general, Karen Byrne, vbyrnefamily@hotmail.co.uk or telephone  07792721974.

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Finnish Spitz Breed Notes-19th July 2019

Yesterday, Saturday 13th July, was the Hound Association’s 57th Championship Show, it was held at the County Showground in Stafford where the weather was nice and dry, in fact it was a lovely temperature as it was not too hot for the dogs, in fact after lunch I took Emma for a nice long walk around the grounds. 

It was a different set up for ourselves for this year, as Finnish Spitz and Norwegian Elkhounds were benched together in the new Margaret Everton Pavilion where we had a very large inside ring with plenty of chairs available for people to sit around the ring to watch and support both breeds.

The Elkhounds held their own Club Open show later in the day and I can see this is going to be a very popular idea with breeds as there was a lovely atmosphere and nice to see support for all the exhibitors. 

This year all judging at the Houndshow took place inside, as exhibitors were advised that the outside show area is currently unfit for use as a dog show due to many events being held through May and June which have churned up the surface, however the committee had set-up nice big rings inside for all breeds.   

Our judge Mr Cyril Gilbert, had an entry of 14 dogs, making 15 entries to judge, there were 5 absent on the day.  Best of Breed and the Bitch Challenge Certificate was awarded to mine and Angela Cavill’s Ch Kekkeruusin Emma Through Toveri (Fin Imp) making this her 16th CC under 16 different judges, with Reserve going to Abigail Rolfe’s Enkelini Toivoa.   In the dogs Jo Mansfield showed Ch Sukunimi Haway Geordie owned by Linda Anderson and Steve and Alison Piearce to win the Dog Challenge Certificate and Best Veteran, making this his 9th CC, the Reserve went to David Rolfe’s Ch Puulatva the Red Norseman Among Inkivaari and Best Puppy went to Hannah Bruce and Billy James Toveri Frans, rounding off a good run before turning 12 months old.

The Houndshow itself ran very smoothly with Best in Show starting at 3.30pm, so Emma did not have a long time to wait before representing our breed, what was really nice to see was there was a complete Group with a representative from all the hound breeds present, with 32 breeds in the main ring for Best In Show judge Mr K Sinclair to judge. 

The day itself coincided with my birthday and it was lovely to celebrate with friends at the show before celebrating again in the evening once home.

Spitz in the Park is this coming weekend which is a lovely relaxed place to meet some of the other Spitz breeds, it is held at Padworth, Reading, for further details on the weekends activities please check out their website: www.Spitzinthepark.co.uk, once again there will be some of the Finnish Spitz Club committee there helping to organise the Companion Show.

I welcome any news, either on shows or on our breed in general, Karen Byrne, vbyrnefamily@hotmail.co.uk or telephone  07792721974.

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Finnish Spitz Breed Notes-12th July 2019

This weekend sees the Hound Association Championship Show 2019, being held at its’ now traditional venue, the County Showground, Stafford, we are first on in the Pavilion Ring at 9.00am, our judge is Mr Cyril Gilbert, who has an entry of 15 dogs, making 15 entries to judge.

For the first time we will be benched and judged in the new Margaret Everton Pavilion, where the Pavilion will be shared by just ourselves and the Norwegian Elkhounds, who are also holding their Club Open show on the day, so it should make for a nice atmosphere on the day.

The lovely weather this week has meant early morning and late evening walks for us, to ensure that it has not been too hot for Emma on her walks, this has enabled us to witness some stunning sunsets over the last week!

I look forward to catching up with you all on Saturday.

I welcome any news, either on shows or on our breed in general, Karen Byrne, vbyrnefamily@hotmail.co.uk or telephone  07792721974.

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Finnish Spitz Breed Notes-5th July 2019

Just back home from a thoroughly enjoyable day at Windsor Championship Show where for the first time in years we had Challenge Certificates.  We were scheduled third in the ring today so we did not have to leave at the crack of dawn, instead it was a leisurely journey and for us very scenic.  We drove past Stonehenge and it was lovely driving past Windsor Park when approaching the showground.  After three previous days of pure sunshine we were rather grateful that the temperature started lower on Sunday with a refreshing breeze in the air, though by midday, once the sun broke through, we were glad the sides of the tent were open.  As Stuart was driving, myself and Hannah (Jenson’s owner) enjoyed a traditional pimms with all the fruit trimmings,  at ringside I was also treated to an ice cream by Jill Cowper – thank you.

Our judge today was breed specialist, Mrs Irene Slater ,who had an entry of 9 dogs making 10 entries, with all dogs present on the day. Winning his 1st CC with BOB was Steve and Alison Piearce’s Era jarhen Turo At Sukunimi (Fin Imp), handled by Steve, the Reserve Dog CC and Best Puppy was Toveri Frans (known as Jenson at home), owned by Hannah Bruce and Billy James, handled by Hannah.  In the bitches, winning her 15th CC was myself and Angela Cavill’s Ch Kekkeruusin Emma Through Toveri (Fin Imp), handled as always by Stuart and Bitch Reserve CC was Abigail Rolfe’s homebred Enkelini Tolvoa. 

I would also like to say congratulations to our Finnish Spitz Club chairman Robert Greaves who with his Norwegian Elkhound Ir Ch Whitttimere Prada gained her 3rd Challenge Certificate at the show to gain her Champion Title, handled by Will Croxford, many congratulations.

Being back at home means we can now hear the hum of music from the last day of Glastonbury Festival which is held just down the road from our house.

I welcome any news, either on shows or on our breed in general, Karen Byrne, vbyrnefamily@hotmail.co.uk or telephone  07792721974.

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Finnish Spitz Breed Notes-28th June 2019

As promised in last weeks breed notes, here is my full report from last weekends’ 38th Championship Show of the Finnish Spitz Society.

The day started with the three Special Award Classes, this year judged by Miss Annelise Haugstad (Skogly), once again the Special Award classes were well supported with 16 dogs entered across the 3 classes.

The judge for the main Championship Show was Mr Chris Window (Hanbar), Chris who along with his wife Norma has been involved with our breed since 1986 when they had their first Finnish Spitz, there was an entry of 25 dogs for Chris making 38 entries, with just 5 absentees on the day.  

The Dog CC was David Knights and John Stokes’ Ch Toveri Turo Of Lelaps (Magnus), handled by David, Magnus was also RBIS, BOS in Show and BVIS, the Dog Reserve CC was Robert Greaves’ Ch/Ir Ch Kunniakas Look No Further For Whittimere.

There was then a break for lunch, which has become tradition, was prepared by Lindsay and was enjoyed by all, with Abby yet again producing a beautiful cake for everyone to enjoy.

Judging resumed after lunch with the Junior Handling class, which was won by Ellen Hack, we were very lucky with the weather throughout most of the day with the majority of the judging being completed outside, apart from one downpour early in the afternoon which meant a quick move inside, however, the sun soon shone back through and judging was finished outside in glorious sunshine!

Best in Show and the Bitch CC was awarded to mine and Angela Cavills’ Ch Kekkeruusin Emma Through Toveri (Imp Fin), handled as always by Stuart, the Bitch Reserve CC went to David Knights and John Stokes Ch Toveri Tosca of Lelaps,  Best Puppy in Show was Hannah Bruce and Billy James’ Toveri Frans.

The rosettes looked stunning with their emerald green and gold ribbons, and after the show the Society handed out their annual trophy winners from 2018.

Prize money was awarded in all classes for 1st to 3rd place, with specials on offer for all placed dogs from Fish4Dogs, and a gift wrapped doggy bone treat which Emma loved. It was lovely to see friend of the breed Jean Brown visiting the show, and Jean clearly enjoyed seeing the dogs and catching up wtih friends.

Don’t forget the Finnish Spitz Society Open Show is on Saturday 26th October 2019, where our judge is David Knights, and a date for next year’s diary the Society Championship Show is on Sunday 14th June 2020 where our judge will be Jane Maxwell.

I welcome any news, either on shows or on our breed in general, Karen Byrne, vbyrnefamily@hotmail.co.uk or telephone  07792721974.

 

Finnish Spitz Breed Notes-21st June 2019

We have just got home from the Championship Show of the Finnish Spitz Society and have the main head line results for you, a more detailed report will feature in my breed notes next week.

Today our judge Mr Chris Window (Hanbar) awarded the Bitch Challenge Certificate and Best in Show to Ch Kekkeruusin Emma Through Toveri (Imp Fin) and Dog Challenge Certificate and Reserve Best in Show to Ch Toveri Turo Of Lelaps, as I said earlier a full report will appear in next weeks breed notes.

Our next Championship Show with CCs is Windsor Championship Show, which for us in on Sunday 30thJune, entries have closed, and the entry for our judge Irene Slater is 10 dogs.

There is still time to enter the Houndshow which is on Saturday 13th July and our judge is Cyril Gilbert and I can tell you that this year we are going to be benched in the new Margaret Everton Pavilion where the ring will also be located it is worth checking out the various stake classes which are on offer – on-line entries close on the 24th June so you need to enter without delay!

As ever please send me details of any Finnish Spitz related news that I could include in the breed notes.

I welcome any news, either on shows or on our breed in general, Karen Byrne, vbyrnefamily@hotmail.co.uk or telephone  07792721974.

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Finnish Spitz Breed Notes-14th June 2019

This Sunday 16th June is the 38th Championship Show of the Finnish Spitz Society, entries have closed and I can tell you the main show itself, where our judge is Mr Chris Window, has 25 dogs making 38 entries which looking back at where we have had Challenge Certificates on offer this year, makes it the biggest Finnish Spitz entry of the year. The annual show is being held at its normal location at Corley Village Hall, CV7 8AZ and doors open at 9.30 am with judging commencing at 10.30 am.  The Special Award classes are being judged prior to the main show and Miss Annelise Haugstad has an entry of 16 spread over 3 classes which are Junior, Open and Veteran. Car parking and admission is free so if you have not entered you are welcome to come along to watch, refreshments will be available and there will be a raffle. 

Windsor Championship Show, where we have CCs back this year has just closed for entries, however,  there is still time to enter the Houndshow which is on the Saturday 13th July (my birthday!) on-line entries to the Houndshow close on 24th June, this is followed by Leeds Championship Show being held on Sunday 28th July with on-line entries closing 1st July; remember if you are entering paper based the closing date is always earlier so please check the date on the front cover of the schedule.

As ever please send me details of any Finnish Spitz related news that I could include in the breed notes.

I welcome any news, either on shows or on our breed in general, Karen Byrne, vbyrnefamily@hotmail.co.uk or telephone  07792721974.

 

Finnish Spitz Breed Notes-7th June 2019

It is unbelievable to think this is now my 100th set of breed notes for Finnish Spitz, it seems like only yesterday that I started to write them for our beautiful breed.

We have a short break now until our next Championship show with CCs which is the 38th Championship Show of the Finnish Spitz Society, on the 16th June 2019, hopefully I will have details of the entry to share with you next week. 

Myself and Stuart  are heading off to  Southern Counties Canine Association Championship show this afternoon and will be there  on all 3 days, helping out in different roles and hopefully seeing some familiar faces.

As ever please send me details of any Finnish Spitz related news that I could include in the breed notes.

I welcome any news, either on shows or on our breed in general, Karen Byrne, vbyrnefamily@hotmail.co.uk or telephone  07792721974.

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Finnish Spitz Breed Notes-31st May 2019

Today Stuart and I went along to watch at our local show, which for us is Bath Canine Society Championship Show, we don’t often go to shows without taking a dog, Emma having already won under today’s judge stayed at home with Jack and Evie.  This week we were second in the ring and with a fairly small entry before us, we were in the ring at approximately 10am, so we had time to settle down to watch the judging with a cup of coffee to warm us up!

Our judge was Jeff Horswell, who had an entry of 7 dogs making 8 entries, with a split of 5 dogs and 2 bitches, who were all present.  The Dog Challenge Certificate, Best of breed and Best Veteran handled by Steve Piearce was Ch Sukunimi Haway Geordie owned by Linda Anderson and Steve and Alison Piearce, the Reserve Dog Challenge Certificate and Best Puppy at only his second show was Toveri Frans, handled by Hannah Bruce who owns him along with Billy James, it was great to see Toveri Frans (known as Jenson at home) on the Our Dogs live stream representing the breed in the Puppy Group. The bitch Challenge Certificate and Reserve Challenge Certificate were withheld.

I welcome any news, either on shows or on our breed in general, Karen Byrne, vbyrnefamily@hotmail.co.uk or telephone  07792721974.

 

 

Finnish Spitz Breed Notes-24th May 2019

For the second consecutive week we had Challenge Certificates on offer, this time it was at the Scottish Kennel Club Championship Show; in fact it is going to be three weeks in a row which is unusual for our breed as next Sunday 26th May is Bath Championship Show.  I wonder whether this is another explanation why after having 14 dogs entered at Birmingham, the entries have slightly dropped for the next two shows, at SKC we had 8 entries and at Bath we have 7 entries. As I mentioned in last week’s notes it seems the Finnish Spitz entered from show to show vary greatly, maybe exhibitors are choosing which show to support when we have three in a row in different parts of the country, with the travelling that is required?  As our Emma has previously won Challenge Certificates under the SKC and Bath judges we made the decision not to enter under the same judge again, however, we are looking forward to going along to watch at Bath, which is the most local Championship show to where we live, unlike Scotland which is a 7 hours drive on a good journey, so was slightly too far to go as a spectator! 

For Finnish Spitz at Scottish Kennel Club, we were judged on the Friday, unfortunately no one has contacted me to give me any details, so I just have the main results to share.  Our judge was well known breed specialist Mrs Ellen Baird who actually lives in Scotland.  Ellen had 8 dogs entered all of which were present on the day, 5 dogs and 3 bitches.  The Dog Challenge Certificate, Best of breed and Best Veteran handled by Jo Mansfield was Ch Sukunimi Haway Geordie owned by Linda Anderson and Steve and Alison Piearce.  The Reserve Dog CC was Robert Greaves Ch/Ir Ch Kunniakas Look No Further For Whittimere.  In the bitches Jo also won the Bitch Challenge Certificate with her own Ch Sukunimi Kyri Of Yoivo and the Reserve CC with her homebred Yoivo Taia, this week no puppies were entered.

I welcome any news, either on shows or on our breed in general, Karen Byrne, vbyrnefamily@hotmail.co.uk or telephone  07792721974.

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Finnish Spitz Breed Notes-17th May 2019

It was a nice dry day for us at the National Dog Show where for the first time this year we were shown outside and the nice grass rings were a lovely generous size.  This was the 160th Anniversary Championship Show for Birmingham Dog Show Society and all exhibitors were given a gift of a souvenir pen which our daughter Evie quickly acquired when she realised it had a touch screen cushion end! I notice from the schedule that there were several seminars,  which you could attend over the course of the show,  if you wished to widen your knowledge, this is a great idea in my opinion and something others Shows have also started introducing throughout this year.

Looking up our details on the Higham press website before arriving we knew we would not be in the ring early, with an advertised not before time of midday.  We were 4th in our original ring, however, at around 4pm the committee made the decision to move the judging of ourselves and Bloodhounds to a different ring that had become available. 

Our judge was Wendy Shaman who had an entry of 14 dogs making 15 entries (9 of these dogs were different to the entry at our last show, Crufts, this got me thinking how impressive our entries would be if all the different exhibitors were present at the same show).

There was just one dog absent on the day, it was nice that we had a range of exhibits from puppies through to veterans.  After celebrating her 3rd birthday this week, winning her 13th Bitch CC along with BOB was mine and Angela Cavills’ Ch Kekkeruusin Emma Through Toveri (Imp FIN), handled as usual by Stuart, Stuart also handled the dog CC winner Ch & Fin Ch Karahkan Fransu To Toveri (Fin Imp) owned by Dolores Montgomery and Angela. The Reserve tickets were awarded to Steve and Alison Piearce’s dog Era Jarhen Turo At Sukunimi (Fin Imp) handled by Steve and the Reserve Bitch was Abigail Rolfe’s  Enkelini Toivoa who incidentally is bred, owned and handled by Abigail. I was also interested to note when travelling home and looking at the results, that 3 out of 4 winning dogs on the day are Finnish Imports.  Winning Best Puppy  today was the dog owned by Billy James and Hannah Bruce, shown by Hannah, Toveri Frans (known at home as Jenson, interestingly his sire and dam were the CC winners today ), and I have got to add the Best puppy rosette looked lovely with pale blue and pink ribbon tails, the BOS Puppy  was awarded to Sukunimi Inka from Indizak owned by Kate Thomas and Richard Welch.  Best Veteran handled by Steve was Ch Sukunimi Haway Geordie owned by Linda Anderson and Steve and Alison Piearce. 

As we were one of the last breeds to finish being judged there was not a long wait for the main Hound and Puppy Hound Groups and it was great to see Finnish Spitz represented in both of these Groups today, after a long day it was nice that complimentary coffee/tea was available by the side of the main ring by courtesy of The National Dog show.

I welcome any news, either on shows or on our breed in general, Karen Byrne, vbyrnefamily@hotmail.co.uk or telephone  07792721974.

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Finnish Spitz Breed Notes-10th May 2019

When you are reading these notes, we will no doubt be getting ready for Birmingham National Championship show, where Hounds are on Saturday the 11th May, there is an entry of 14 dogs making 15 entries for our judge Mrs Wendy Sharman. I am looking forward to catching up with everyone going, as it seems a long time since our last show with CCs, Crufts!

Following closely on, SKC Hound day is Friday the 17th May, where our judge, breed specialist, Mrs Ellen Baird has 8 dogs making 10 entries.

It is really encouraging to see the entries at the start of this year have begun to pick up, and hopefully we will see a few new puppies and exhibitors starting to attend the shows.

I welcome any news, either on shows or on our breed in general, Karen Byrne, vbyrnefamily@hotmail.co.uk or telephone  07792721974.

 

Finnish Spitz Breed Notes-3rd May 2019

I have been having a good read through the Finnish Spitz Society Championship show schedule, this year it is going to be their 38th Championship Show.  The Championship Show takes place on Sunday 16th June at its’ usual venue, Corley Village Hall CV7 8AZ.  Postal entries close on Saturday 25th May (Postmark) and online entries will be accepted up to midnight 2nd June at www.arenaprint.co.uk.

If you have a paper schedule you benefit from reading all about the main judge, Mr Chris Window (Hanbar) who has been involved with the breed since 1986.

As has become customary, prior to the main show there will be Special Award classes which will be judged by Miss Annelise Haugstad (Skogly), this is a great opportunity to get two different judges opinions of our dogs on the same day. 

Refreshments will be available, as well as an annual draw, and the opportunity to purchase Finnish Spitz goodies from the Society stall. 

A breed show is always very welcoming to anyone interested in our breed and gives you the chance to meet breed enthusiasts with their Finnish Spitz.

I welcome any news, either on shows or on our breed in general, Karen Byrne, vbyrnefamily@hotmail.co.uk or telephone  07792721974.

 

Finnish Spitz Breed Notes-26th April 2019

Firstly this week I would like to remind everyone that not only have we got Challenge Certificates back this year at Bath Championship show, also this year Hounds are on the Sunday, 26th May 2019.  Our judge is Mr Jeff Horswell and there is still time to enter with the closing date of Monday 29th April (Postmark) or you have slightly longer for online entries, which close on Monday 6th May 2019, by visiting www.dog.biz.

I am back to work this week after enjoying two weeks off for the Easter school holidays, during the holidays I managed several  new walks rather than our usual local ones. One in particular was the challenge of walking up Cley Hill (801 feet high),  Emma took it in her stride, I’m not sure if she appreciated the beautiful scenery from the top like Stuart and myself, though she was thankful that we packed her some water for refreshment when we reached the summit!

I welcome any news, either on shows or on our breed in general, Karen Byrne, vbyrnefamily@hotmail.co.uk or telephone  07792721974.

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Finnish Spitz Breed Notes-19th April 2019

A date for everyone’s 2020 diary (or for you to put in your notes section of 2019). The next joint AGM of The Finnish Spitz Club and Finnish Spitz Society will be as usual the first Sunday in April, so next time it will fall on the 5thApril 2020.

 At the Hound Association of Scotland Championship show held last weekend, where we had classes scheduled without CCs, there was an entry of 1 for Mrs Metcalfe- Bilgin, who awarded Best Dog and Best of Breed to Robert Greaves’ Ch/IR Ch Kunniakas Look No Further For Whittimere (Rigsby), rounding off the day and flying the flag for Finnish Spitz, Rigsby was later placed 3rd in Best Veteran in Show under Albert Wight.

I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all and your dogs a Very Happy Easter - Emma obviously won’t be getting any chocolate but planning her a special breakfast of a boiled egg or  two on Easter Sunday – her favourite treat.

I welcome any news, either on shows or on our breed in general, Karen Byrne, vbyrnefamily@hotmail.co.uk or telephone  07792721974.

 

Finnish Spitz Breed Notes-12th April 2019

It is late in the afternoon of Saturday 6th April, and as I write these notes, Robert Greaves is currently traveling to this year’s Canine Supporters Charity Contest of Champion Showdogs, being held again this year at the Holiday Inn, Birmingham Airport.

This is an invitation only competition for the 2018 winners of the overall Top Dog in each breed, to compete against each other head to head in several rounds before the final grand winner is announced.

 Last year Stuart and myself went along representing our breed with Emma, I can tell you from personal experience what a grand evening it will be.  We must remember that the aim of the evening is to raise lots of money which is split over several worthy charities.  The knock out rounds will take place as supporters sit down for a lovely 3 course meal and there will be several unique items in the auction at the end along with the chance to purchase tickets from various different raffles happening during the events of this fine evening.  

Robert and Rigsby (Ch/Ir Ch Kunniakas Look No Further For Whittimere) will be well prepared as they are no strangers at this event having represented our breed five times before tonight.  Tomorrow morning I will be catching up with Robert at the Club and Society AGM’s so will look forward to hearing about the evening and reporting to you all next week.

I welcome any news, either on shows or on our breed in general, Karen Byrne, vbyrnefamily@hotmail.co.uk or telephone  07792721974.

 

Finnish Spitz Breed Notes-5th April 2019

We have been treated to some lovely early spring weather recently, it is lovely to feel the sun on your face as you go for a walk and see the trees and flowers coming into bloom and hear the birds singing. I won’t mention squirrels as Emma goes crazy as they tease her jumping  from branch to branch along the tops of the trees as we walk through our local park! With the clocks changing last weekend, this means lighter evenings for our evening walks, though last week we timed it perfectly to see some stunning sunsets.

This coming Sunday, 7th April, you will find me at the joint venue for the Finnish Spitz Club and Finnish Spitz Society AGM’s, held at Lewknor Village Hall (OX49 5TL), hopefully I will see some of you there for a chat and catch up.

I welcome any news, either on shows or on our breed in general, Karen Byrne, vbyrnefamily@hotmail.co.uk or telephone  07792721974.

 

Finnish Spitz Breed Notes-29th March 2019

What a great week we have had here in Somerset, where the sun has been shining for most of the week, myself and Emma have been enjoying some lovely walks and making the most of the sunshine, enjoying all the spring flowers starting to come through, and seeing all the blossom on the trees!

Some news from Finland to share with you all this week, Fin Ch Kekkeruusin Velllamo owned and handled by Perttu Ala-lso, who was bred by Pertti Korhonen has once again achieved a magnificent result. At The Winter days Show, held on the 17th March, Vellamo, achieved Best of Breed and Best In Show, which is a repeat of her win last year when Angela Cavill had the honour of judging their main show, this year the judge was Matti Palojärvi, with an amazing entry of 70, wouldn’t it be really great to get back to that level of entries for our breed here in the UK. The following weekend at the Turku Championship Show, Vellamo was awarded BOB under Pekka Teini, then went on to win Best In Group under Kirsi Honkanen, and will be back today (Sunday) to compete for Best In Show, huge congratulations to Vellamo, Perttu and Pertti.

I’ve just noticed the daffodils which were given to exhibitors at last years Finnish Spitz Club Championship Show are out in bloom adding some welcome colour to our garden, kept out of reach of Emma of course!

I welcome any news, either on shows or on our breed in general, Karen Byrne, vbyrnefamily@hotmail.co.uk or telephone  07792721974.

 

Finnish Spitz Breed Notes-22nd March 2019

Back to a relatively calm week after the big build-up of Crufts, and the week of Crufts now behind us for 2019. To start this weeks’ notes a date for next year’s diary is Sunday 8th March, which is Hound day at Crufts 2020.

 I must say it is lovely to see our Crufts judge Mrs Alison Piearce has already published her critique, so nice to read whilst the show is so fresh in everyones’ mind.  

I mentioned last week how this year we were lucky enough to be at Crufts for two days, my shopping has not stopped yet! I don’t know whether you were lucky enough when browsing around the many trade stands to come across products featuring Finnish Spitz? Very few items are available, Angela however was lucky to purchase a cross over bag featuring a pattern of our breed; alas for me they only had one.  Back home I have been searching their website and find they do several items including candles, which if anyone knows me, knows I have a tendency to buy! My shopping is now complete!

Our next show with Challenge Certificates on offer is The National Dog Show, held at Staffordshire County Showground on Saturday 11th May.  I noticed it is their 160th Show and exhibitors will receive an anniversary gift, our judge is Mrs Wendy Sharman, postal entries have closed but you still have time to enter on line at www.dog.biz.

I welcome any news, either on shows or on our breed in general, Karen Byrne, vbyrnefamily@hotmail.co.uk or telephone  07792721974.

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Finnish Spitz Breed Notes-15th March 2019

Now where do I begin this week? The answer of course is Wednesday night at the Pawscars evening, the big night before the start of Crufts. As someone who doesn’t normally wear a dress it was lovely to make the effort to dress for the occasion, and wow I am so super glad I made the extra effort at this Black Tie evening celebrating British Dogdom.  The event is held at the Metropole Hotel and the aim is to raise money for the Peek A Boo Trust, who then pass on the money raised to their chosen charities for that year.  I was not lucky enough to win one of the fantastic raffle prizes, however took home a lovely goody bag with items donated by the many sponsors. I know you will all join me in congratulating all the winners on the night, but especially Midland Counties for winning the Championship Show of the Year, whose Chairman, Robert Greaves is the Chairman of the Finnish Spitz Club also.

Thursday was a day spent shopping at Crufts!! My goodness in previous years I have not been able to come for an extra day so I felt I needed to make up for that! I cannot believe how many trade stands there were to browse around, there is DEFINITELY something for everyone……human or your 4 legged friends.  I managed to purchase a new dog collar for Emma and a necklace for myself.  Thursday wasn’t all about shopping; it was nice to take a leisurely walk around Discover Dogs, seeing all the breeds from across all the groups represented on the same day, and clearly coffee also featured whilst catching up with many friends.

Saturday was the turn for the Hounds and Terrier breeds, so time to focus on the showing side of Crufts.  This year we were on 3rd in the ring, after approximately 128 dogs, so not such an early start as last year, however, Stuart had us on the road by 6.30am!

As expected we had a long wait before judging, and judging commenced at around 3.45 pm, with the dogs all seeming to cope well with the long wait. As I have previously mentioned, our judge this year was breed specialist Mrs Alison Piearce with an entry of 15 dogs (6 dogs and 9 bitches), making 17 entries, with one overseas exhibitor this year from Germany, on the day there were 5 absentees.

The Dog CC, Best Of Breed and Best Veteran was Mr and Mrs Steffen Kopsch RO/HU/SK/CZ/VDH Ch Bjorn-Kulta Ta Poika Of Storm Valley, making the journey from Germany most satisfying, this was his 1st CC in the UK, the Reserve Dog CC went to Mark Cherry with Valokki Sibbe. In bitches it was also a 1st Challenge Certificate for Valokki Pipari, owned by Christine Dardis and Alun Green and handled by her breeder Irene Slater, the Reserve CC went to mine and Angela Cavills’ Ch Kekkeruusin Emma Through Toveri (Imp FIN), handled as usual by Stuart.

I welcome any news, either on shows or on our breed in general, Karen Byrne, vbyrnefamily@hotmail.co.uk or telephone  07792721974.

 

Finnish Spitz Breed Notes-8th March 2019

I am really excited, as, as you read these latest breed notes I will be at Crufts 2019! I have not been able to come for the last two years because of work commitments but this year everything is sorted to make up for the lost time in not attending.

To start with we will be attending, on the Wednesday evening,  the magical Pawcars event, I have never been before so this will be a great way to start my time at Crufts 2019, I will share the exciting evening’s details next week on my return home.

Hounds are on Saturday but myself and Stuart are planning on visiting on the Thursday, to hopefully start my shopping, Thursday is day one of the four days Crufts is held over.  As well as plenty of shopping time, we also plan on taking a leisurely walk around Discover Dogs, not just checking out Finnish Spitz but taking advantage of seeing all the breeds in one hall. 

We will also enjoy watching other breeds other than our own being judged, as well as the Obedience and Agility classes.  Of course the other thing which I am really looking forward to is catching up with friends, some who I have not seen since LKA.

On Saturday as I have previously mentioned, our judge this year is breed specialist Mrs Alison Piearce with an entry of 15 dogs (6 dogs and 9 bitches), I wonder if the entry includes any overseas entries, as Crufts does often attract visitors from abroad?

I welcome any news, either on shows or on our breed in general, Karen Byrne, vbyrnefamily@hotmail.co.uk or telephone  07792721974.

 

Finnish Spitz Breed Notes-1st March 2019

Wow what amazing weather we have been treated to, the sun has been out and the blossom is arriving on the trees in our local park.  Every year I look forward to when the blossom arrives on the trees which line the path way I walk Emma. We are just finishing half term week so Emma has benefited from extra-long walks during my week off work; Emma is a great companion with me as I have set myself a daily 20,000 step challenge which she relishes.

Emma has also been fortunate to have a couple of “friends” to visit this week.  We often have company on our walks, human and four legged but this time we have been treated to have visits from our own breed, Finnish Spitz.  First was last Sunday when Hannah and Billy came for the day with Jenson, Emma’s male puppy who is now nearly six months old, it was lovely seeing them all again and seeing how Jenson has grown and settled in with his new family. Emma and Jenson got on very well playing together and going on a walk together. 

Our second visitor was also a young male puppy, Bailey, belonging to Sonia and Neil and their two children Emily and Oliver, who  was recently  imported from Germany.  What is lovely is that with both sets of owners this is their first Finnish Spitz so it’s wonderful to welcome new enthusiastic people into our breed.

I have news of a fascinating new book about dogs in Victorian Britain, “The Invention of the Modern Dog: Breed and Blood in Victorian Britain” by three authors Michael Worboys,  Julie-Marie Strange and Neil Pemberton, it explains the evolution of pure bred dogs in Victorian Britain.  I am certainly going to check it out at the Our Dogs stand at Crufts (I am thinking it would make an ideal Father’s Day present), it is also available on the Our Dogs shop online.

I welcome any news, either on shows or on our breed in general, Karen Byrne, vbyrnefamily@hotmail.co.uk or telephone  07792721974.

 

Finnish Spitz Breed Notes-22nd February 2019

This week I have some very exciting news from overseas to share with you.  An absolutely fantastic result for the winner of the Finnish Kennel Clubs Champion of Champions contest, which was held in Helsinki, Finland on 10th February, there were 63 top dogs entered, and this year the overall winner was a Finnish Spitz, a bitch, Fin Ch Kekkeruusin Velllamo owned and handled by Perttu Ala-lso, who was bred by Pertti Korhonen. From the reports all 3 judges agreed on the winner, a brilliant and well deserved result, many congratulations to Perttu and Pertti, the excitement at this unique competition would have been truly electrifiying , incidentally this was Angela Cavill’s BOB winner at Talvipäivät last March where there was an entry of 81 Finnish Spitz.

Once again many congratulations – Onnittelut !

I welcome any news, either on shows or on our breed in general, Karen Byrne, vbyrnefamily@hotmail.co.uk or telephone  07792721974.

 

Finnish Spitz Breed Notes-15th February 2019 

As I write these breed notes, three weeks today is 7th March, day one of Crufts 2019, to many the Greatest Dog Show in the World.

This year our judge is breed specialist, Mrs Alison Piearce, with the hound breeds and the Hound Group being judged on the Saturday.  There is an entry of 15 dogs making 19 entries, a split of 6 dogs and 9 bitches awaiting Alison.

Crufts is unique as it is the only show in the UK which you need to qualify for at other shows during the preceding  year.  Over the four days Crufts there are literally thousands of visitors, with lots of people watching the judging across all the rings, including the Obedience and Agility Championships.

I have mentioned before Discover Dogs which the Club and Society take in turns running over the 4 days. With us exhibiting on the Saturday, this will bring lots of extra visitors, who will be interested in our breed, and will be asking questions to get a better understanding of our breed, not only at Discover Dogs but around the ring side and near the benching area. Personally I am really pleased that this year and next we are on at the weekend so I can come along to watch, catch up with friends, and meet new people interested in our breed and not forgetting shopping!!

We do not have classes at WELKS this year so our next Championship Show will be in May where we have 3 consecutive weeks of Shows. First is Birmingham National on Saturday 11th May, judge Wendy Sharman, followed by  S.K.C Friday 17th May with breed specialist Ellen Baird our judge, and Bath (the first year with we have CC’s back) on Sunday 26th May, where Jeff Horswell is our judge.  Entries have not closed yet for any of these shows, which are all in different parts of the country with a very good geographical spread.

I welcome any news, either on shows or on our breed in general, Karen Byrne, vbyrnefamily@hotmail.co.uk or telephone  07792721974.

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Finnish Spitz Breed Notes-8th February 2019

As I sit at my laptop I have a lovely view outside, bright blue sky and the sun sparkling against the thick, thick snow! That’s right, there is snow in Somerset! Where we live in the Mendips surrounded by hills we have actually been hit quite bad, in the South West we don’t get snow as often as some parts of the UK but when we do we know it! It arrived Thursday evening; just a light fluttering at first but the next morning we opened the curtains to be greeted by a thick white blanket.  All the phones started buzzing, no schools are opening in Shepton Mallet, which means a snow day for Jack and Evie and no work for Stuart and myself as all roads are completely blocked.  Unfortunately for Jack he still had his GCSE revision to work through; Evie was straight outside chucking snowballs with Emma a willing playmate! It is like Emma knows instantly that she is from Finland and in her blood lines to be out in snow, she was rolling around having a great time. Our cat on the other hand decided wisely to stay inside and keep Jack company. Later in the day we wrapped up against the elements to take Emma for a walk to our local park, I have got to stay the park looked stunning in the snow, it took us a while to walk through the snow as not only was it hard going but I had to keep stopping to take photos!  Now I have appreciated the beauty of the snow I hope it goes as quick as it arrived.

A couple of the latest results to bring to your attention from 2018, the Our Dogs Top Brood Bitch for 2018 is Valokki Venla Sisko on 11 points and the Our Dogs Top Sire is Ch/ Am Ch Kunniakas Kovu ShCM on 13 points, many congratulations to all the owners. 

Lastly did anyone else watch the television programme “Britain’s Top 100 Dogs”? Emma watched on as the countdown got closer to revealing the winner, two of her best friends who she walks with, a Beagle and Cocker Poo were included but alas Finnish Spitz did not feature this year…….

I welcome any news, either on shows or on our breed in general, Karen Byrne, vbyrnefamily@hotmail.co.uk or telephone  07792721974.

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Finnish Spitz Breed Notes-1st February 2019

Where has that week gone, it seems like only yesterday that Stuart arrived back from Manchester Championship Show with Emma and her daughter Purdey who came to visit for the week. It made for a fun week for us all, with many of the neighbours excited to see how Purdey has grown and developed, but were disappointed that she was only here for the week!  Emma enjoyed all the games they played, however, was delighted on Thursday when she could go back to her long adventure walks with her doggie friends, myself, Stuart, Jack and Evie now think the house is really quiet!

No show results to report  this week, with our next show with CCs being Crufts, which is always a great event and an exciting week in the dog world. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for any local Open shows which may schedule classes, or for those that don’t there are always the Any Variety classes we can enter. Open shows give us a great opportunity to showcase our beautiful breed, a great place to practice and a chance to meet old and make new friends who share a common interest. Please let me know of any experiences and results you have at Open shows you would like me to share in the breed notes.

I welcome any news, either on shows or on our breed in general, Karen Byrne, vbyrnefamily@hotmail.co.uk or telephone  07792721974.

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Finnish Spitz Breed Notes-25th January 2019

Manchester was a very early start for us as Finnish Spitz were first in the ring, with judging starting promptly at 9am, and living in Somerset meant we had to allow plenty of time to travel up to Staffordshire, though I must say, it is the best time for us to travel through Bristol on the way, ensuring we avoid the rush hour! 

We were also lucky that on Thursday even though it was cold there was no snow around the country unlike the next day. This was the first of the new shows this year that the KC has made into a representative show, meaning all qualifying breeds had  Challenge Certificates on offer, this meant the show was busier than in previous years, however, this added to the atmosphere around the showground.

Our judge, Viv Philips, had all the entries present on the day, it was pleasing to see a puppy entered and present  at the first show of the year, with Best Puppy being awarded to Sukunimi Inka from Indizak (a bitch), owned by Mrs K Thomas and Mr R Welch.

Viv awarded BOB and the Bitch CC to Ch Kekkeruusin Emma Through Toveri (Imp Fin) owned by myself and Angela Cavill, with the Reserve CC  going to Valokki Kuura owned by Cecily Byard & Thomas Greer. In the dogs Viv awarded Best Veteran and the Dog CC to Robert Greaves Ch & Ir Ch Kunniakas Look No Further For Whittimere with the Reserve CC going to Steve and Zoie North’s Toveri Tynni From Markku.

I welcome any news, either on shows or on our breed in general, Karen Byrne, vbyrnefamily@hotmail.co.uk or telephone  07792721974.

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Finnish Spitz Breed Notes-18th January 2019

As you read this week’s breed notes you may already be at Manchester Championship Show which is held in Staffordshire over 4 days.  This is the first year, under the new KC initiative, that Manchester is allocating CC’s for every breed that has championship status. We were already allocated CC’s at Manchester so for this particular show the new allocation hasn’t had any direct impact for our breed . We are on day one, Thursday 17th January, and our judge is Viv Phillips, with our 1st set of CCs for 2019 on offer, there is an entry of 8, I will share with you the results next week.

Can I remind you that out of the other Championship shows which have now been granted All Breed status for breeds with Cc’s we are now scheduled to get CC’s this year at Bath (26th May), Windsor (30th June), Leeds (28th July) and Darlington (13th September). We are no longer allocated CC’s at Blackpool, Bournemouth or City of Birmingham, so in total this year we have 14 sets of CC’s on offer.

Our next Championship Show is Crufts itself, is it only me who can’t believe another year has flown by?! Postal entries have already closed but if you act quickly you can still enter on-line.  We have a breed Specialist judging this year, Alison Piearce, we are also on a Saturday which means no school so Jack, Evie and myself can accompany Stuart this year and in 2020 when he is judging on the Sunday.

We also have the opportunity to “show off” our beautiful breed at Discover Dogs over 4 the days of Crufts, Discover Dogs is covered by both the Club and Society, more details to follow closer to the show.

I welcome any news, either on shows or on our breed in general, Karen Byrne, vbyrnefamily@hotmail.co.uk or telephone  07792721974.

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Finnish Spitz Breed Notes-11th January 2019

Here we are in January again, the start of a new year, and the a new year of shows just about to kick off, for us this starts at Manchester Championship Show on Thursday 17th with judge Viv Phillips, where we have our 1st sets of CCs for 2019 on offer.

A start of a new year means a new set of results, the main formal winners from 2018 are always announced at the joint AGMs of the Finnish Spitz Club and Finnish Spitz Society in April, but I can share with you, and I am sure you will join me in congratulating Robert Greaves’s who won overall Top Dog in Finnish Spitz for 2018 with his well-known Ch/IR Ch Kunniakas Look No Further For Whittimere, known to us as Rigsby, he is now a veteran and from five Championship shows he showed at in 2018 , Rigsby was awarded 4 CCs, 4 BOBs, 1 Res CC, also winning the Hound Veteran Group at WKC, which takes his total to 40 CCs, well done to Rigsby and Robert. I will share with you all the winners once these are confirmed.

I look forward to seeing friends and Finnish Spitz enthusiasts during the year where we have classes at Championship and open shows, not forgetting we can represent our breed when we have no classes in the “Not separately classified” classes.

We also have two Discover Dogs opportunities at Crufts in March and in October London plus Spitz in the Park will return in the summer.

I welcome any news, either on shows or on our breed in general, Karen Byrne, vbyrnefamily@hotmail.co.uk or telephone  07792721974

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Finnish Spitz Breed Notes-4th January 2019

Myself, Stuart, Jack, Evie and not forgetting our Emma, would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone and their dogs “A Very Happy New Year”.

We are looking forward to catching up with friends at our first Championship Show of the year shortly, with Manchester Championship show being held on January 17th 2019,  entries have  now closed, so I will hopefully be able to share the entry figures with you next week.

I welcome any news, either on shows or on our breed in general, Karen Byrne, vbyrnefamily@hotmail.co.uk or telephone  07792721974.

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